DORSET Police will use enforcement on non-compliance of coronavirus measures as a “very last resort”.

A senior officer said much of the restrictions and rules announced by the government this week will be overseen by event organisers and site managers.

Meanwhile, he said issues with face coverings not being worn at indoor settings have usually been dealt with by staff initially, the force said. Under the Plan B measures people will have to wear a mask inside in most public places, but not in pubs and restaurants.

The NHS Covid Pass will become mandatory for entry into clubs and other large gatherings – classed as indoor events with 500 or more people, unseated outdoor events with more than 4,000, and any event with a crowd of more than 10,000.

Discussing the new rules, Dorset Police Assistant Chief Constable Steve Lyne said: “We are working closely with the government to understand the implications of this announcement on policing, but do not expect a significant role for the service in verifying an individual’s vaccination status.This will be a matter for event organisers, stewards, and site managers.

“Our experience from previous restrictions around face coverings suggest that, in most cases, incidents involving non-compliance are resolved by staff in the first instance.

“Businesses, local authorities and licensing authorities have a responsibility for ensuring premises are COVID-19 safe and compliant. We will be working closely alongside partner agencies to ensure that everyone is playing their part in reminding the public of the requirements and encouraging them to comply with these to help stop the spread of this new variant and protect each other.

“We will be continuing with the 4Es approach when responding to reports of non-compliance and will only use enforcement as a very last resort.

“We will not tolerate violent or abusive behaviour towards staff or members of the public and will respond and investigate any such incidents.”